OCTOBER 13, 2023

Dear Fourth District Constituent,

I am in Washington D.C. awaiting a possible vote to fill the vacancy for the office of Speaker of the House. For 10 days and counting, all House legislative business has ceased as Republican infighting has dragged on and on. This is a critical time for our nation that demands serious leadership and good governance. 

Earlier this week, the Star Tribune published my response to a column alleging that Democrats could have somehow saved House Republicans from their own leadership crisis. The truth is, this an unforced error of the majority's own making, which comes on the heels of months of chaos and a refusal to work together to serve the American people.

House Republicans have spent this year pushing an extreme MAGA agenda. They have wasted time on a baseless and partisan impeachment inquiry, pursued radical policies like a nationwide abortion ban, and repeatedly brought our country to the brink of crisis. House Democrats have done everything in our power to protect Americans. We prevented a catastrophic default on our debt that would have hobbled our economy. And we averted a government shutdown that would have forced our troops to work without pay. 

If just five House Republicans joined Democrats, they could break with the extremists and seek a bipartisan path forward to responsibly govern the House and deliver for American families.

Israel-Hamas War

On October 7th, the world watched in horror as Hamas terrorists attacked Israeli communities and committed unspeakable atrocities. Since then, I have been briefed by intelligence officials and the Biden administration to understand what happened and what comes next.

I have always spoken out against governments, extremist groups, or those exerting power over marginalized populations – whether they are our enemies, our allies, or within our own nation – and I will always speak up for those suffering and in defense of human rights. The attack by Hamas was a gross violation of human rights. It crossed a red line. In the wake of this heinous attack, the international community is in agreement that Hamas must be stopped. At the same time, any military response MUST follow international humanitarian law and protect innocent lives in Gaza.     

I know this heinous attack has been painful for many in the Fourth District and around the world. I have heard from many Jewish constituents and community leaders who have loved ones among the injured, killed, or missing. I stand with you.

For there to be any path toward a peaceful future, international human rights and international law must be at the forefront and democratic ideals must be upheld. Read the full statement I submitted into the Congressional Record here. 

Resources and guidance for American citizens in Israel can be found here.

While Republicans continue to fight over a Speaker, know that my office remains ready and open to serve you. As always, don’t hesitate to reach out if you need assistance with a federal agency or to voice your policy opinion. Thank you for being an informed and engaged constituent.

Sincerely,

Betty McCollum
Member of Congress